Travel Inspirations -Adeje

Adeje is an area of extreme diversity located just a short journey away from its neighbour, Playa de las Americas. During the summer months, Adeje’s temperatures rise above 30°C with 80% sun, leading to a very hot, humid climate. Though related, Adeje boasts what Playa de Las Americas cannot. Bursting with history, architecture and natural beauty, Adeje’s is also home to a vast variety of water and adven ture sports. To the south of Adeje is the picturesque area of Fañabé , which has a small stretch of beach to enjoy. As you enter Adeje you will notice its amazing landscape, which includes mountains and vibrant green foliage. There are many well kept parks and areas to sit and admire Adeje; each sight more interesting to look at than the next. The name `Adeje` was thought to come from the `Ajedad` tribe of the Moroccan origin. It has many historical statues and sights to visit, in particular the Casa Fuerte and Barranco del Infierno. Adeje also has a very religious background and has many shrines and churches to visit such as the Santa Ursula church.
History
Adeje was one of the kingdoms that made up the former organization of Tenerife during pre-Hispanic times. King Pelinor (Mencey= King) was faithful to the first governor of the Canary Islands. Castilian conqueror, Alonso Fernandez de Lugo had him baptised under the name of Diego. After being given parts of Adeje kingdom, Diego’s authority was delegated to the the Marquises of Adeje, whom also possessed power over the area since the 17 th century. They were responsible for the adminis tration of Adeje and also the economic wealth such as the land, water and sugar mill. The Pontes of whom were next in the line of authority built a fortified house in 1555, and in 1655 they were granted permission to turn Adeje into their own feudol manor.
Adeje became the heart of importance for Spanish colonialists, it being one of the four ‘kingdoms’ of the nine Menceys (Kings) that The Guanches had landed in. The Guanches bombarded the invading troops with spears and stones until they finally suffered defeat; leaving The Guanches with a temporary victory.The Guanches of whom are now extinct, were the first known residents of the Canary Islands between 100 BC and 1000 BC, and were thought to have migrated to Archipelago at this time. Many of the Guanches died resisting the new colonizers, and of whom were left died from the invader’s infectious diseases that they had little immunity to defend themselves against; this is thought to be because of their long term isolation during battle.
Swash buckling pirates
During the 14 th century, the many British, French and Dutch pirates avoided Tenerife due to horror stories about the savage local inhabitants. After the Spanish conquest, however, the Island became a magnet to these pirates. The Canary Islands became a compulsory stopping point for the Spanish fleets on their way to and from the New World due to their strategic geographical positions. Because of this the islands became an obvious target for pirate attacks and foreign invasions. It was in 1555 that Pedro de Ponte (who also founded Grarachico town in 1496) built Casa Fuerte de Adeje (the Strong House) to defend its sugar cane business from being invaded by the British and French pirates. An English citizen named John Hawkins who was partner to Pedro de Ponte in the slave trade in America, is known to have lived in the Casa Fuerte de Adeje.
Casa Fuerte de Adeje was declared a historic monument back in 1986.
Culture
Sitting comfortably nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Adeje prides itself for being a soothing coastal town; its atmosphere plays a great part in the way of life in Adeje. Adeje’s weather (balmy, tranquil summers and little rain) makes it a popular tourist destination.
Adeje is filled with local artistic passion, the mosaic windows of the churches and the creativity of the bars’ interiors express this. The Museum of Sacred Art also lies in Adeje, expressing the past of the Virgin of Candelaria in the form of exquisite artwork.
Religious traditions are taken very seriously in Adeje. La Calle Grande is a famous street in Adeje due to its Easter celebration. During this time over 200 actors gather to perform `The death and passion of Jesus Christ`. This is not only a celebration but a beloved tradition to the people of Adeje.
Overall, Adeje is thought of as a peaceful, respectful county with its community conveying a laid back but hard working image.
Economy
Fishing and farming are great industries in Adeje, a lot of the fresh produce (mainly fruit and vegetables) are brought into trade at the regular farmers markets. Agriculture played a dominant part of Adeje’s economy right up until the 1990‘s when business and tourism took priority.
How to get there
By bus:
Adeje is located just a short bus journey from Playa de las Americas. It is recommended to travel to Playa de las Americas first then to Adeje. TITSA bus number 111 runs from Santa Cruz via the main cities, and bus number 343 runs from Puerto de la Cruz via the major airports. From Playa de las Americas you can catch the bus number 460 from the bus station to Adeje junction which takes no more than 15 minutes.
By Car:
If you are travelling to Adeje from Playa de las Americas or Arona (south of Tenerife ), then take the TF-66/ TF-1 South Highway via Fañabé into Adeje.

Iglesia de Santa Úrsula (Santa Ursula Church and Fortress)
Santa Ursula church is situated in the town centre of Adeje. Built in the 16th century on a hemirtage, the church houses Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación (the Patron Saint); it was renovated and enlarged in the 17th century. Worth noting is the Mudejar styled ceiling over the chancel. The church has a unique rectangular form and architecture not usually found in Canarian churches; such as a small idol positioned on a pedestal on the steeple. French tapestries from the same century are also an unusual element to the church, along with a duplicate figurine of the patron saint; the original was lost during a land slide in 1826. The text engraved into the figurine itself remains unsolved, but has formally been interpreted as Iberian or Estruscan (which is an ancient language now spoken in parts of Italy). Santa Ursula church consists of a chapel with two isles either side made of stone. The majority of the church is also made of stone and painted glass windows, while the body of the parish house is occupied by engravings of bland language. A new tower was built in 1993 attached to the north facade of the church.
Address: Plaza España, 13, 38670 Adeje, Tenerife . Telephone: 922 780 152
Casa Fuerte (The Strong House)
After a freak fire in 1902, most of the political, economical and social history of the Casa Fuerte was destroyed. Its remains exist as a ghost of the Ponte family; and of the 17th century period of slaves and pirates. The historical remains of the Casa Fuerte lie within the town of Adeje.
Address: Casa Fuerte,Calle El Molino, Adeje, Tenerife . Opening hours: Casa Fuerte is unfortunately not open to the public, but its beauty can still be admired from outside.
Adeje Centro Cultural
Built facing the mountains and looks like a ship, the Adeje Cultural Centre is certainly worth a visit. This is where temporary art exhibitions, music and theatre performances take place. Latest agenda/ events can be obtained from the venue or drop in the Tourist Office (C.C. Plaza del Duque or under 922 75 62 07) for more details.
Address: C/ Príncipe Pelinor, s/n 38670 Adeje, Tenerife . Telephone: 922 756 246 Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays 09:00 to 21:30
Iglesia del Convento de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe y San Pablo (The Convent Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St Paul)
The Convent Church was founded by the first Marquis of Adeje, Juan Bautista de Ponte Fonte y Pagés, in 1679. Today, only the convent itself remains but that doesn’t stop it being declared a Property of Cultural Interest by the Official Gazette of the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands for its artistic features (baroque style moulding, marble carvings, pine ceiling panels, and stone columns) and historical landmarks.

Adeje is a municipal with plenty of ocean nearby, most of its attractions are based around the waterfront. Adeje offers a lot to do in terms of sights and activities, from fishing to dolphin watching; or for the more adventurous, you can experience a variety of excursions such as snorkelling and diving to view a ship wreck. Adeje also offers activities the whole family can enjoy such as Siam Park - Europe’s largest water park. To see more in of what you can see and do, please click on any of the following resorts/ areas, which belongs to the Adeje municipal:
Playa de las Américas Fañabé La Caleta Callao Salvaje Playa Paraiso Costa Adeje
Siam Park
Siam Park is Europe’s biggest water park, but if you were to name it a water park, it would be an understatement! Dubbed `The Water Kingdom`, Siam Park has a Thai theme and a huge selection of water slides, bars and restaurants- something for the whole family. You can choose to swirl into the mouth of a giant dragon amongst your friends in a raft, or if you are brave enough, take the 28 metres plunge down the Tower of Power which takes you soaring through an underwater aquarium... watch out for the sharks! You can also catch the waves at the Wave Palace, which generates the world's biggest artificial waves, up to 3 metres high. If you need to take a breather, why not relax on Siam beach; or float away down the Mai Thai River? By now you must be working up an appetite! Siam Park has a range of traditional international restaurants as well as their signature Thai cuisine. If you are too busy to stop for a meal, the Traditional Thai Floating Market has plenty of snacks to satisfy your cravings before you ride the Jungle Snakes!
Address: Siam Park, C/Finlandia S/N 38660, Adeje, Tenerife .
Opening times: Summer hours: 30 th March- 21 st October. 10:00 - 18:00 Winter hours: 22 nd October- 29 th March. 10:00 - 17:00
Entrance fees: Siam Park 1 day ticket- Adult- €29, Child - €19 Siam Park and Loro Parque twin ticket- Adult- €45, Child - €30 Tenerife Twin Ticket including travel- Adult - €59, Child - €39 *Prices are rounded up through currency conversion to euros.
SIAM PARK FREE BUS SERVICE:
Siam Park’s complimentary bus service departs from Adeje, Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos ; the journey to Siam Park is roughly 30 minutes from each destination.
Adeje: CC El Duque- 9.35 am /Fanabe Plaza- 9.40 am /Ocean Park 9.45 am
Playa de las Americas: El Dorado- 9.35 am /Tenerife Princess- 9.40 am / Llanos de Troya- 9.45 am
Los Cristianos: CC Pasarela- 9.20 am/ Princess Dacil- 9.30 am
Safety advice for Siam Park:
Siam Park urges all visitors to remove jewellery, watches and large piercings to protect the safety of themselves and others when using the waterslides. Lockers are available at just 3 euro to ensure all possessions are safe whilst visitors are using the park. Siam Park also holds typical height restrictions of at least 1.42m, so please be aware of this when taking younger children to the park to avoid disappointment.
Golf
Golf in Costa Adeje offers a diverse activity for beginners to professional putters! With its large green stretches and many golf course locations, Costa Adeje is a brilliant location to enjoy this breezy, calming sport while taking in some fresh air.
Address: Finca de los Olivos, s/n Adeje, Tenerife .
Diving and Snorkelling
Diving in Adeje is diverse, offering anything from wreck dive to deep sea diving among the mysterious marine life. There are dives and snorkelling excursions available for people of all capabilities, and diving lessons available to help those wishing to progress with their diving skills.
Blue Bottom diving centre
Diving is a popular excursion where divers can explore the underwater marine life with the safety of a trained instructor, of whom have extended knowledge of tips and advice. Visitors of all skills and capabilities from the age of 12 and above can experience the incredible world of underwater diving. The centre holds over 200 square metres of equipment which are all of high quality to keep divers safe.
Address: Avenida Espana, C.C. Terranova, 201-202, Adeje, Tenerife . Opening hours: 09:00 - 19:00, 7 days a week. Diving Fees: Roughly €45 per dive, per person. Price includes excursion and safety equipment.
Whale and dolphin watching
Whale and dolphin excursions are very popular in the South of Tenerife , due to its eternal promise that you will spot one of these precious creatures on every trip. The boats are the ultimate source of relaxation, this is the time to put your feet up, lay back on the upper deck in your bikini and wait in anticipation to spy a dolphin with a beer in one hand and a camera in the other.
There are miniature catamaran sail boats available for whale watching which hold up to 22 passengers; and glass bottom catamaran boats available for dolphin watching. You can choose excursions from 2 hours to 4.5 hours; designed to fit around your free time.
Catamaran Bonadea (sail boats) Address: C.C Puerto Colón, Loc. 124 Playa de las Américas , Adeje, Tenerife . Excursion hours: 11:00, 13:30, 15:30 daily Excursion fees: 2 hours €20, children half price Sail boat fees: Upon request/ booking
Tenerife Dolphin excursion boats Address: Centro Comercial Ocean Center, 15, 38660 Adeje, Adeje, Tenerife . Excursion fees: 2 hours (Mini Cruise) - €20 , 3 hours (Atlantic Cruise) - €41 , 4 hours- €50 Children are entitled to 50% off and booking is highly recommended.
Barranco del Infierno walk
The Barranco del Infierno is one of the main natural highlights of Adeje. It was previously used by goatherders and workers who were in charge of the water irrigation channels. It is recommended to book early because the walks are limited to only 220 visitors per day. The walk starts at the end of Calle El Molino, which has a good view point to the left where you can admire the intersection of Barranco del Infierno. You will see an old church and some traditional bee hives at the beginning of your walk. Across a small brick aqueduct is Acequia Larga (long irrigation channel). When you reach the height of 455m (approx. 2 km) you will reach Cuevas del Marqués (the Marquis caves). As you enter the greener part of the ravine you will see La Cogedera, the final part of the excursion. Here the climate becomes very humid and you will see the wild vegetation of willow groves and chestnut trees, which have created a natural tunnel safe enough to pass under. As you come to the end of the walk you are greeted by the main feature of Barranco del Infierno- `The Cascade` waterfall which has heights of 560m. If you are doing the walk during the winter months you will catch The Cascade at its strongest flowing point, whereas in the summer months it is less powerful. During the walk you will experience the beauty of the natural flora and fauna of Adeje in all its glory. The Barranco del Infierno walk allows you to enjoy a refreshing change and the chance to take in Adeje’s valleys and mountains away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby cities. During the walk you can also see the caves where the mummies of The Guanches were discovered.
*Temporarily closed - please call the number below to check* Location: Barranco Del Infierno, Borough of Adeje. Starting point: Calle Los Molinos Finishing point: La Cascada Distance: 6.5 kilometres (return trip) Time: 4 hours (return trip) Difficulty: medium Slope: 200 metres
Telephone : 922 78 28 85 (bookings must be made 24 hours in advance) Fees: €3 per person, additional €2 for a guide. Opening hours: The walks start between 8.30 am and 2.30 pm.
Other walks in Adeje area:
Other popular walks in the area take in Roque del Conde, Ifonche, Boca del Paso and Camino de Carrasco. Many of the footpaths are old Royal Paths or Caminos. The Adeje Tourist Information has more details and maps on these walks.

There are a series of beautifully grey sand beaches along the Adeje coast. Started off at Playa del Duque, where Gran hotel Bahía del Duque is located, you can explore various beaches the coast has to offer. The main beaches such as Playa de la Pinta and Playa Torviscas are just a short walkable distance southwards before you reach the touristy Playa de las America.
Playa del Duque
Located off Gran hotel Bahía del Duque, Playa del Duque started the series of beaches of the Costa Adeje. It lays within the newest part of Costa Adeje and harbours bars, restaurants, showers and parking. There are many parasols and palms to drift away under.
Playa de Fañabé
A fine grey sand beach with calm water, Playa de Fañabé is ideal for family and those who love water activities such as jet skis and paragliding. There is a generous promenade here, where many visitors soak up the Canarian heat. On a clear day, you can see the La Gomera island from the beach.You will find many beach umbrellas horizontally lining the playa which are perfect to indulge in during siesta on a lazy afternoon.Playa Fañabé is only about 2km from Playa de las Américas and 1km away from the yachting port in Puerto Colon.
Playa de la Pinta
If you come from Playa de Fañabé, you will find Playa de la Pinta just before the yachting port of Puerto Colon. Also known as Playa de Colon, this rather small bathing bay is busy with sun and water activity lovers.
Playa de Torviscas
Playa de Torviscas can be found in the south of Puerto Colon. The beach is ideal for family due to its calm waters. The beach possesses grey fine sands and are well equipped with amenities such as cafes, bars and restaurants.
Playa de las Américas
This tourist heaven is only about 2km away from Playa de Fañabé, you can get there by bus, taxi or car; and if you are up for it, walk along the coast. Characterised by golden sand and clear turquoise water, this 850 metres long beach is broader than that of Playa de Fañabé . The flat dropping beach means it is safe and accessible by families with children. There are many water activities such as jet skis and banana boats available for the active sun-seekers. The beach is well- equipped with amenities, and the beach promenade boasts a good selection of cafes, bars and restaurants.

Restaurants
Golden Hands - Schwabenstuble
Infamously known as the ‘Gordon Ramsay of Adeje’, Shwabenstuble (formally known as Golden Hands) boasts excellent reviews, has great service and even better gourmet dishes. Although a little pricy, this little gem of a restaurant tempts you with the likes of lobster and hot raspberry desserts. The restaurant, located opposite Hotel Jardin Tropical, also has a pristine white terrace to dine on.
Address: Calle Gran Bretana, San Eugenio, Adeje, Tenerife . Telephone: 922 795 197
Azulon
This enchanting, metropolitan restaurant teases you with their brilliant fusion of creative dishes and artistic interior. Everything you see inside Azulon is crafted with such precision; from the wooden maple tables to the bubble effect walls. Azulon treats your taste buds with dishes from the Orient mixed with the tastes of the Mediterranean.
Address: Roque del Conde, Torviscas alto, Calle Extremadura, 10 38660 Costa Adeje (after the arch of Torviscas alto) Telephone: 922 712 940 Opening hours: Mondays - Saturday 18:30- 23:00, Sunday closed.
D.J. Cocktail Art Bistrot
The Art Bistrot offers a wide selection of Italian cuisine and staff with extensive knowledge about the wine they have on offer. The ambience of this restaurant is comfortable and welcoming whether you are dressed up or dressed down. You might even get a free shot of lemoncello at the end of your meal. In the evening, this beautiful Italian restaurant transforms into a cocktail bar.
Address: Calle las Artes, Costa Caleta, Adeje, Tenerife Telephone: (+34) 922 711 979 Opening hours: 19:00- 02:00
Restaurant 88
Restaurant 88 is a luxury oriental spot offering stunning platters of fresh sushi and homemade dim sum. Restaurant 88 is known for its immaculate presentation and passionate service, their staff becoming somewhat of a feature to the restaurant. More so, you are accompanied by the phenomenal views of the Atlantic Ocean as you dine. Pull out a timber stool and grab your chopsticks!
Address: Avenida Alcalde Walter Paetzmann, Adeje, Tenerife . Telephone: (+34) 922 775 829 Opening hours: 13:00- 16:30 and 19:00- 23:30
Nightlife
Faro Chill Art Bar
Set in an inventive, unusual light house, Faro Art Bar is a curious twist of wild neon interior and multiple terraces themed with artefacts that could have once belonged to an ancient Greek ancestor. Faro promises a unique experience and with its drink prices titling under average; Faro Art Bar is destined a winner.
Address: C.C. Torviscas, Costa Adeje, Adeje, Tenerife . Telephone: 922 712 841 Web: www.faro.chillart.org
Moonlight Bar
The Moonlight Bar is a British-run karaoke bar located in Torviscus, a short journey away from the beach. It has a reputation for being rowdy so it is a great spot if you are in search of that kind of evening. Moonlight Bar is always full of people and guarantees a fun and lively experience. During the day the bar’s balcony is a great place to relax; on a clear day, you will be able to see the neighbouring island of La Gomera .
Address: Torviscus, Adeje, Tenerife (located on the promenade of Torviscus, just outside Torviscus Market)
Festivals
The death and passion of Jesus Christ
The death and passion of Jesus Christ is an important event in Adeje, it is to celebrate Easter or Good Friday. During the two hour event over 200 actors, some of whom are local, gather to re-enact the famous worldwide story of the life and death of Jesus Christ. This is a well known occasion, so visitors are advised to get there early.
Location: Calle Grande (the main street), Adeje Starting times: Starting 12 noon on Good Friday, April. (As this event is always held on a Friday, the date will vary)
Romería de Adeje
During the October months, you can witness the traditional Romería- the pilgrimage celebration. Primarily introduced by the Catholic religion and the local Pagans, the pilgrimage attracts over 1 million people, many of which are natives looking to discover their natural Spanish roots. Pilgrims who are virgins to the festival dip their hats in water and cover themselves, as a modern way of baptism. Singing, dancing and eating during this cultured festival is a sure way of getting to know the origins and true way of living in Adeje.
Shopping
Due to the nature of Adeje being a small county, you will find little shops dotted around rather than one obvious town centre. It is worth buying Adeje’s duty free perfume, cigarettes and alcohol; which are noticeably cheaper. Alternatively, there are nicely designed hairdressers and pedicure outlets lining the streets of the centre. For fresh local produce, head to the Agromercado in the weekend.
Agro-mercado Adeje
The agricultural market of Adeje is founded with the objectives of “Quality, Originality and Respect the Environment”. Here you will find fresh agricultural products ranging from vegetables and fruits to regional wines and cheeses bearing the Consejo Regulador de la Agricultura Ecológica (CRAE) seals.
Address: Calle Archajara, 35670 Las Torres, Adeje, Tenerife (opposite Makro). Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays 08:00 to 14:00.